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Experience the Best of London This School Holiday

There is no better time than now to start planning a family getaway to London for the school holidays! Guarantee your kids a trip filled with history, culture and fun activities that they will love. The Washington Mayfair makes a great base for a family trip to London because of its location to popular family attractions that will allow you to really make the most of your break. Here’s our guide to some of the best things to do in London with kids this summer 2024. 

Family Fun in London

Why not start your trip close to The Washington Mayfair with a visit to the iconic London Zoo in Regent’s Park. Home to a huge variety of species, the zoo offers immersive exhibits such as the Land of the Lions and Penguin Beach, plus over the summer holidays, families can discover the science behind scat and explore how droppings help us understand animal diets, habitats, and health. An educational adventure whilst at the same time getting up close and personal with all the animals. 

Whilst in Regent’s Park why not explore some of the other Royal Parks in the vicinity like Hyde Park and Green Park. These parks offer acres of green space amongst busy city life, perfect to add some outdoor fun to your trip and for little ones to explore. Enjoy acrobatics at the playgrounds, pedal boats on the Serpentine River and picnic amongst the flowers. There are often outdoor events to enjoy in the parks too, like open-air concerts, bandstand events and theatre performances. St.James Park also leads to Buckingham Palace which is a great place for families to enjoy the unique spectacle of the Changing of the Guard. A ceremony that never fails to capture the attention of all watchers.  

London’s Amazing Museums

The London museums offer a perfect chance to learn and play for all ages and it’s unique in that so many of the city’s top museums are all located in the district of Kensington just a few minutes journey from The Washington Mayfair. A must-visit is The British Museum, journey through time with its vast collection of artifacts, including the Rosetta Stone and Egyptian mummies. Plus, the kids can participate in free activities and gallery trails designed to make history come alive. Some of the other museum highlights include the new gardens at The Natural History Museum opening this month, space-themed sleepovers at the Science Museum and the Secret Seekers treasure hunt at the V&A. Visit the official museum sites to find out what else is happening this summer. 

Stay with Us

Families love that the Washington Mayfair is a convenient base for top London attractions and the ability to combine rooms and suites to meet their needs. Our hotel combines history with modern elegance which will appeal to the whole family and will ensure a restful stay. 

Dine at the hotel’s Madison restaurant, where you can enjoy a delicious meal from the best ingredients. Or even book a classic British experience of Afternoon Tea. London is a city that’s full of adventure for all ages, so don’t wait, start planning your summer holiday today! 

London Outdoor Events In July

As we see the (hopefully!) better weather continue through to July, we also see a lot more outdoor events scheduled in London. With an average of 23C during July, this really is the month to start heading outdoors and enjoying all that London has to offer.

We’re well in the swing of the UEFA Championships now, with the Quarter Finals scheduled for 5th and 6th July, Semi Finals 9th & 10th and the big finals on Sunday 14th July. Along with screenings of the matches at Madisons Bar, don’t miss out on our UEFA Meal Offer, only available until 14th July.

Outdoor theatres and pop up outdoor cinemas are also a fantastic way to combine being outside with a unique watching experience. Make it an afternoon to remember with a picnic lunch! Don’t forget sun screen, a hat and of course a blanket for when it gets chilly in the evening!

The Royal Parks are wonderful this time of year, whether you are planning a picnic, or an afternoon reading in one of the famous deck chairs, London’s green spaces are a good opportunity to immerse yourself in peacefulness amid the hustle and bustle of the city.

Hyde Park is also home to the BST Festival, a series of incredible shows and headlining acts over multiple weekends, starting on Friday 28th June and running to Sunday 14th July. This year the 2024 line up includes:

  • Paolo Nutini (Sunday 30th June),
  • Andrea Bocelli (Friday 5th July),
  • Robbie Williams (Saturday 6th July),
  • Shania Twain (Sunday 7th July)
  • and Kylie (Saturday 13th July)

as well as Stevie Nicks, The Corrs and Morgan Wallen to make up a fantastic few weeks of live music in the capital!

The Washington Mayfair Hotel is ideally situated near all the action this July! Our rooms and suites offer a variety of luxury accommodation designed with your comfort and relaxation in mind.

Don’t forget to check our Special Offers page for our latest deals, as well as our UEFA Meal Offer, our “Spring Escape / Summer Sizzler” gives you 15% off your stay, free full English breakfast and a complimentary room upgrade (depending on availability). We hope you enjoy your summer in London and always, book direct for the best price!

Your Guide to the Perfect London Break this Spring 2024

As winter finally comes to an end and the vibrant colours of spring begin to bloom, it is the perfect time to plan a getaway to the bustling metropolis of London. With its iconic landmarks, rich history, and cultural diversity, the city offers endless opportunities for exploration and relaxation. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, here’s your comprehensive guide to experiencing the perfect London break this Spring 2024. 

Spring in London can only truly be enjoyed outdoors, with new flowers blossoming and lush greenery making its appearance after the bleaker winter landscape. So why not take advantage of the acres of green space and parkland that fill the city, Spring offers such a unique time to explore the city’s beautiful parks and gardens. From the world-renowned Kew Gardens to the serene tranquillity of Hyde Park, immerse yourself in nature and marvel at the stunning displays of tulips, daffodils, cherry blossoms and more. The Royal Parks offer a whopping 10 parks and gardens to explore, one day simply wouldn’t be enough to visit them all!  The parks also have many events and experiences scheduled for this coming spring, so why not take a look at what they have to offer on their events page? There are events for all ages and some great family activities in London, some are even free! Plus, annually Hyde Park hosts the BST Hyde Park event, offering music performances from some top acts across July. Tickets are already on sale for artists such as Shania Twain, Kylie Minogue and Robbie Williams with more to be announced.  

Take advantage of the warmer weather by dining alfresco at one of London’s rooftop bars or riverside restaurants. Enjoy panoramic views of the city skyline while sipping cocktails or indulge in delicious cuisine overlooking the Thames River. There are some great eateries with a view available, including the Rooftop at London Bridge or St. James and 10° Sky Bar. 10° Sky Bar has a wide range of cocktails and other beverages and gets it name from the angle which creates the golden hour, you’re guaranteed to get some Instagram-worthy pictures of your visit from this lush rooftop bar in Mayfair. The Rooftop St. James also offers stunning views over London, looking over Trafalgar square and giving you great perspective on the London skyline, including Big Ben, the London Eye and the Shard. 

While spring in London brings milder temperatures, be prepared for occasional rain showers… It is still England after all! Make sure to pack a few layers and a waterproof jacket to stay comfortable. If you really want to make the most of your stay, choose a centrally located hotel to maximise your time in the city. We recommend staying in Mayfair – one of London’s more premium districts for a extra luxurious stay whilst still being central to attractions such as Hyde Park, Green Park, Buckingham Palace, the West End and shopping on Oxford Street or Bond Street.  

Take a look at our beautiful rooms and suites at The Washington Mayfair plus our special offers. You always get the best prices when you book directly through our website plus bonus perks too. Spring is the perfect time to enjoy a longer break in London, so we’ve made it easy to make the most of your London holiday with our Stay Longer Save More London hotel offer. Stay for 4 nights or more and save up to 20% of your stay. Start the day off night in our Madisons restaurant for a delicious breakfast then end the night in the Madisons Bar while you settle down and enjoy the relaxed ambience with a classic cocktail.

We hope you enjoy Spring in London!  

What to Do and Where to Stay in London this Summer 2023

London is one of the most vibrant and exciting cities in the world, and it has something for everyone. Whether you are interested in history, culture, shopping, or nightlife, London has it all. And this summer, there are even more reasons to visit this amazing city. Over the next few blog posts, we will highlight some of the best events happening this summer in London and the best London hotel to enjoy all the action. 

Here are just a few of the highlights of what’s happening in London this summer: 

  • Wimbledon: The Wimbledon Tennis Championships are one of the most prestigious sporting events in the world, and they’re held every summer in London. If you’re a fan of tennis, this is a must-see event. Tickets are always in high demand and many have already been allocated via the ballot but there is still opportunity to get your hands on some tickets as a number of tickets will also go on sale per day at the event. Wimbledon recommends getting there early to have the greatest success of getting in, so you may want to consider booking your Wimbledon hotel stay the night before so that you can be there early to ensure success! The event is scheduled from 3-16 July 2023. 
  • Queens: A well-loved pre-cursor to the main event of Wimbledon is the Queens Club championship, also known this year in 2023 as the cinch Championship. Tickets to this event are also available now n and this event will take place between 19th and 25th of June 2023. 
  • BST Hyde Park: Is there anything more delightful than some al fresco music? The BST Hyde Park music festival is a multi-weekend event that features some of the biggest names in music. This year’s lineup includes Billy Joel, The Royal Philharmonic, Alfie Boe, Lana Del Rey and P!nk. 23rd June – 9th July 2023. 
  • Taste of London: The Taste of London festival is a food lover’s paradise. It features over 50 of London’s top restaurants, as well as live music and entertainment. This is the perfect event to sample some of the best food the city has to offer. 14-18 June 2023. 
  • Buckingham Palace State Rooms Open to the Public: Buckingham Palace is one of London’s most iconic landmarks. Every summer, the state rooms are open to the public for a limited time. This is a great opportunity to get a glimpse into royal life and see some of the palace’s most impressive interiors. July 14 – Sep 24 2023. 

No matter what your interests are, you’re sure to find something to love in London this summer. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today! 

If you’re looking for a place to stay, The Washington Mayfair is the perfect choice. This luxury home-from-home hotel is located in the heart of the prestigious district of Mayfair and is perfectly located to enjoy everything London has to offer this Summer. The hotel offers a variety of beautiful rooms and suites, as well as an in-house restaurant. The Washington Hotel Mayfair is the perfect place to relax and unwind after a day of exploring London. 

We hope you’ll join us in London this summer 2023.

Enjoy Mayfair in April 2023

If you’re planning a trip to Mayfair in April 2023 then you’re in for a treat. Spring is getting into full swing in the Royal Parks and events are scheduled throughout the city. Here are some suggestions for things to do in Mayfair during your visit. 

Cherry Blossom in Mount Street Gardens

Spring is the perfect time to see the cherry blossoms in Mount Street Gardens. This small park is located in the heart of Mayfair and is home to a stunning display of cherry blossom trees. Take a stroll through the park and enjoy the beautiful pink and white blooms – It’s the perfect place to relax and take in the beauty of spring! 

The RHS Chelsea Flower Show

If you’re a fan of flowers and gardening, The RHS Chelsea Flower Show is an event you won’t want to miss. This event is one of the most prestigious flower shows in the world, and it takes place near Mayfair each year. This year it will take place 23-27 May and is available to book your ticket now. The show features stunning displays of flowers, plants, and garden designs, as well as workshops and talks by experts in the field. 

London Marathon

The London Marathon is an iconic event that comes to London annually, this year the marathon is scheduled for Sunday 23rd April. The race winds its way through the streets of London and finishes on The Mall in St James’ Park near to the Washington Mayfair Hotel. Even if you’re not a runner, it’s worth checking out the race and cheering on the participants. 

Shopping 

Mayfair is known for its high-end shopping, and there are plenty of designer boutiques and luxury shops to explore. In April, many of these stores will be showcasing their new spring and summer collections, so it’s a great time to do some shopping. Don’t miss out on the iconic department store, Fortnum & Mason, which has been a fixture in Mayfair since the 1700s. 

Stay in Mayfair

Mayfair is a vibrant and exciting neighbourhood with plenty to offer visitors in April 2023. Whether you’re a runner, a nature lover, or a fashionista, you won’t be disappointed with the activities available in this luxurious district. If you are looking for the best London hotel so that you can enjoy all that Mayfair has to offer, look no further than The Washington Mayfair. Premier accommodation with a home-from-home feel. So book your stay, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable trip to Mayfair this spring! 

 

 

Enjoy Winter in London

Woolly hats, crisp frosty mornings, steaming cups of coffee… What do you love about winter? Winter is well under way here in London and at the Washington Mayfair Hotel we are excited to welcome guests to the hotel for 2023. January has got a bit of a reputation for being a quieter month to visit London which is why we would argue that it’s one of the best. With less queues at some of London’s top attractions and a little less of a crush on the tube! If you are happy to wrap up and brave the cooler weather, then the start of the year could be the best time to visit the capital.  

Every season offers something beautiful to see in the Royal Parks and winter is no exception. It may surprise you to know that London is actually home to over 5000 acres of quality green space… Not quite the concrete jungle some may imagine! There are many highlights of the parks that can only be discovered in winter like the frost-covered landscape with the grass crunching underfoot, the frozen transformation of the Sperpentine or even catching a glimpse of the first delicate green shoots emerging from their hibernation. So, take a detour from the busy metropolis and spend some time to enjoy what’s on offer, with self-guided tours available and winter warmer talks scheduled throughout the next few months. Whether you are visiting London for pleasure or business the Royal Parks can be enjoyed as a little break from London Life, plus it’s great for boosting physical and mental wellbeing! 

Let’s face it though, we don’t always want to be outside when it’s cold… Sometimes you just want to be appreciating the warm surroundings of a cosy café, or restaurant as you tuck into a culinary delight. London offers a huge selection of eateries to choose from for a variety of budgets. Some of which have transformed their roof terraces offering fireplaces, faux fur, creative cocktails and stunning views of London, so you can enjoy the outside but also keep warm – perfect! 

The Washington Hotel Mayfair is the best hotel to plan your next London trip. You will find everything you need to enjoy your stay to the full whether you are travelling for business or for leisure with a large selection of rooms and suites available to add a little luxury to your stay. We would love to welcome you this Winter to The Washington Mayfair so take a look and book your London Adventure today.
 

Autumn Has Arrived in London

Do you love Autumn? For many it is their favourite season. Stunning colours, comfier clothes, and steamy hot chocolates aplenty. There’s no better place to enjoy this special season then amongst the hustle and bustle of London. Even the darker nights offer a special opportunity to enjoy a magical side of the capital, as it is illuminated against the dark sky.  

We feel that the best London trips start and end in Mayfair. With upmarket shopping areas, exclusive hotels and elegant abodes, there’s no wonder why this area is favoured by the rich and famous. Our hotel – The Washington Mayfair, is conveniently placed right in the heart of this elite district. To really enjoy autumn to the full, why not take a moment out from city-life and take a stroll over to one of London’s Royal Parks. Inhale all the delights of Autumn as you take a trip through Green Park which connects Mayfair to the iconic Buckingham Palace. You may even get a glimpse of the new King! 

Not too far from Mayfair, across the Thames is the Southbank Centre which, this month of October, is hosting the London Literature Festival. In its 15th edition this festival celebrates the written and spoken word with a series of planned events between the 20th and 30th of October. Masterclasses, activities, and talks are available now to book. 

The Southbank Centre offers beautiful riverside views, plus the opportunity to see some of the many bridges that cross the Thames River. Back in 2021 the bridges in London became part of the World’s largest public art commission. Entitled ‘Illuminated River’, nine bridges are uniquely lit in a delightful display. This time of year offers the best opportunity to see the work in all its twinkly glory.  

An alternative way to see the illuminations is by taking a relaxing river cruise. Bateaux London runs dining cruise experiences which take you along the Thames at night, passing some of London’s top landmarks like the London Eye and Big Ben. With freshly prepared meals and entertainment on-board it is the perfect way to enjoy an autumn evening in London. 

With other exciting events planned over the next few months including fireworks displays, Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland and Oktoberfest. You will be spoilt for choice when planning what to do in London. For a hotel that ticks all your boxes and is perfectly located to enjoy all the fun, why not stay at The Washington Mayfair Hotel? We offer a variety of luxury rooms and suites to suit whatever your needs. Take a look at our special offers available here. We hope you have a fabulous Autumn in London! 

Top Five Things to Do in Mayfair

Mayfair is one of the most premium areas of London. It’s a frequent spot to visit for the rich and famous, as well as being viewed as the most expensive property on the Monopoly board. If you are looking for some of the top gems to visit in this affluent area then look no further, see our top 5 Mayfair attractions below. 
 
1. Marvel at the Marble Arch 
 
This historic archway dates back to the 12th century and is a vast monument which stands as a gateway leading into Hyde Park. It’s beautiful white marble face and stunning architectural detailing make it a popular place to take a selfie or photograph. It is definitely worth a visit for anyone exploring Mayfair. 
 
2. Take a Hike in Hyde Park 
 
As one of London’s Royal Parks, Hyde Park contains the largest area of green space in central London. Take a walk along some of the city’s most beautiful spots. Why not take this route starting at Marble Arch and Speakers’ Corner? Stroll along the Serpentine, past the Diana Memorial Fountain and follow the lake until you arrive at the Italian Gardens. Finally head to the Round Pond and end up outside the royal venue of Kensington Palace. Delightful! 
 
3. View Something Special at the Royal Academy of Arts 
 
There is something for everyone at the Royal Academy of Arts. With a world-class exhibition programme and free displays of art and architecture you can guaranteed to be amazed at their collections. Spanning 250 years of British art it contains hundreds of paintings and sculptures with thousands of prints, historic photographs, and drawings.  
 
4. Have a Moment of Tranquillity at Brown Hart Gardens 
 
Relax in this secret oasis above street level on top of an electricity substation. Whilst being in an unlikely location, many find this unusual roof garden to be a hidden gem in London with a feel of the High Line in New York. You can breakfast, lunch or afternoon tea at the cafe whilst enjoying a slice of tranquillity elevated from life. 
 
5. Get your Heart Thumping at Sotheby’s 
 
Going, going, gone! There is nothing like the thrill of an auction and you won’t be left disappointed at Sotheby’s – A luxury auction house that specialises in art and rare objects. Bid on fine wines, watches, handbags and more or just come to view this fascinating marketplace in the heart of Mayfair.  
 
The Washington Hotel Mayfair is an ideal place to stay when visiting Mayfair. Our Art Deco inspired exterior and luxury rooms offer a perfect base, close to all the attractions of the area. With the best rates available when you book via our website, make sure to check our special offers page here. Have a fabulous time in Mayfair! 

Your Ideal London City Break

How would you spend a city break to London? Now is the time to make the most of the sunshine as we head into September and book a bit of time away from the day-to-day grind to enjoy the capital. London has something to offer for everyone – so choose your ultimate experience and start making plans! 

Super Shoppers

Do you love the thrill of a new purchase? Find everything you are looking in the huge array of London shops. From chain stores to market stalls, there are a variety of goods waiting to be purchased. A particular highlight near to the Washington Mayfair Hotel is the luxury shopping area of Bond Street. Famous for its exclusive brands, art and antiques, it is worth a visit even just for the window shopping! 

Green Enthusiasts

Do you prefer to get away from the London architecture and enjoy some green space? The Royal Parks offer over 5000 acres of historic parkland to explore. Hyde Park is the perfect spot to enjoy some alfresco dining, or while the sun is still shining, you may fancy a dip in the Serpentine Lido. A 100m natural open water swimming area open from 10am to 6pm. There are also free bandstand concerts happening on select weekends running into September. Be sure to check the Royal Parks website to see what’s on and where.

Attraction Addicts

London wouldn’t be London without its iconic landmarks. Let’s face it… It would be wrong to visit London without including some of the top attractions like Big Ben or Tower Bridge. Why not plan to have a meal in the highest garden in London? The sky garden is open for free seven days a week, you just have to make sure to grab your tickets on the website in advance. You can also tour inside Buckingham Palace for a limited time during August and September, plus it’s only a short journey away from us at The Washington! It’s well worth a visit for any London Lover.

At The Washington Mayfair Hotel we are the best choice in London accommodation no matter what you love to do in the city. Our luxury rooms are situated in an ideal location so you can explore with ease. Check out our ‘Special Offers’ link in the menu to see how you can get the very best price on your stay. We hope you enjoy your London city break! 

Festival Season is Here!

Do you love a festival? An opportunity to get lost in the crowd, to meet new friends, explore new cultures, to be surrounded by nature? Now the days are getting warmer… Events are being planned throughout London to celebrate all sorts of interests from music to sport. Take a look at some of the best events in London that are organised over this month and into July in our latest article. 

If you are a food-lover then you are going to love The Taste of London in Regent’s Park. There’s one thing for certain… It’s going to be delicious. There will be five days of feasting taking place from 15-19 June, with a huge collection of food stalls from some of the top London restaurants. Get ready to try food from around the world – Just make sure to arrive hungry because you will want to sample it all!

After a more classic festival vibe? Then prepare to dance like no one is watching at BST London Hyde Park. There is a host of performers booked to perform across nine concert days, with big names like Elton John, Adele and Duran Duran. Plus, plenty of star-studded support acts. All taking place between June and July, take a look at the BST London website for more information about acts and how to get tickets.

Maybe not conventionally know as a festival but still not to be forgotten is the classic British celebration of tennis that is The Wimbledon Championships. Held from 27 June – 10 July, this event creates a special buzz in London that’s not to be missed. Don’t have tickets already? Then don’t worry, as hundreds of Centre Court and No.3 Court tickets are released daily throughout the tournament with the option to queue for general grounds admission… So, there’s still time to be part of the buzz!

What about an event without tickets? West End Live in Trafalgar Square is a completely free festival showcasing the top musicals to hit the West End. See the whole list of performers on their website but as a sneak-peek there will be performances from all the biggest stage stars like Mamma Mia, The Lion King and Hamilton. Prepare to sing your heart out in this huge celebration of theatre.

These are just a few of some of the best festivals in London planned this Summer. Some others include, Summer Science Exhibition 2022 6-10 July, Masterpiece London Art Fair 30 June – 6 July, Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival 4-9 July.

Camping is often associated with festivals but there is no need to take the option of least comfort… Book a stay at The Washington Mayfair Hotel for a perfect base to allow you to enjoy all the action in luxury home-from-home London accommodation. After a long day of fun, retire to your room (or maybe even suite?)… Kick off your shoes and relax in a top London hotel. Cut out all the travelling and stay close to all the action. We always offer the best rates when you book through our website, so take a look to see what we can offer you today.